公交“突围”

Core Viewpoint - The public transportation industry in Tianjin is undergoing significant changes, with a notable decline in bus ridership due to the rise of alternative transportation options such as subways, ride-hailing services, and personal vehicles. The industry must adapt to these changes to remain relevant and effective in meeting the needs of the public [4][6][7]. Group 1: Historical Context and Changes - In 2015, over 300 million bus rides were taken daily in Tianjin, but this number is projected to drop to 100-110 million by 2025, with over 50% of passengers being elderly [4]. - The transition from older vehicles to new energy models, such as hybrid and electric buses, has transformed the bus experience, making it quieter and more comfortable, but has also led to a decrease in passenger interaction [5][6]. - The bus passenger volume has decreased from over 1.1 billion rides annually a decade ago to less than 400 million today, highlighting a significant shift in public transportation dynamics [6][8]. Group 2: Challenges and Market Dynamics - The share of public buses in urban public transport has fallen from 54.1% in 2019 to 36.2% in 2024, indicating a substantial decline in bus usage [6]. - The emergence of diverse transportation options has led to a reduction in bus ridership, with many young people preferring subways for their punctuality and speed [7][8]. - The average distance of bus trips has decreased from approximately 8 kilometers to around 4 kilometers, reflecting changing commuting patterns and increased expectations for service quality [7][8]. Group 3: Strategic Adjustments and Innovations - The Tianjin bus company is optimizing its routes by focusing on reducing overlaps and enhancing connections with subway lines, aiming to improve service efficiency and passenger convenience [8][12]. - New bus lines, such as the 331 route, have been developed to meet specific community needs, demonstrating a proactive approach to market demand [10][11]. - The introduction of on-demand bus services and customized school bus routes has shown promising results, with significant increases in ridership and improved service delivery [14][17]. Group 4: Future Directions and Sustainability - The Tianjin bus company is exploring new business models, including integrating technology and innovative service offerings to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction [18][19]. - The establishment of a new management company aims to optimize resources and develop new revenue streams while maintaining the core public service mission [19][20]. - The focus on balancing public service obligations with market-driven strategies is essential for the sustainable development of the public transportation sector in Tianjin [18][21].